CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – West Virginia lawmakers have introduced a bill that would shift sixth-grade students out of elementary schools and into middle schools statewide.
House Bill 4660, introduced during the 2026 Regular Legislative Session, proposes reclassifying sixth grade as part of middle school beginning with the 2026–2027 school year, according to the bill text.
The legislation would amend state education code to require that all sixth-grade students be placed in middle schools rather than elementary schools. The change would apply across all public school systems in West Virginia.
Supporters of the bill say the move could better align sixth graders with age-appropriate academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, and social development typically offered at the middle school level.
The bill also addresses staffing concerns, stating that any reclassification of teachers resulting from the change must follow existing state law governing teacher assignments and employment protections.
House Bill 4660 has been referred to the House Committee on Education, where it will be reviewed before any further legislative action is taken.
If approved, the measure would mark a significant structural change for West Virginia schools, impacting students, parents, teachers, and county school systems beginning next year.
